Some carbon sources are directly subsidized by local and national government in efforts to support economic activity. But there is another kind of carbon subsidy often rolled into these, which takes into account external costs directly related to that energy use, but not paid by members of the energy industry (such as pollution-induced illness).

The cost of doing nothing, especially when we think we're expanding clean, safe power is devastating. Not all nuclear power plants should remain in operation long after their initial license, or when unexpected dangers are uncovered, but removing a substantial portion of clean, inexpensive energy in any area needs serious consideration.